An influential US senator announced Tuesday he would head late this week to South Korea, Thailand and Burma and accused China of failing to show “responsible leadership” amid regional unrest.

“It is time for the United States, together with our allies and partners, to call on China to act in a responsible way that improves the stability and prosperity of the region,” said Democratic Senator Jim Webb. Webb, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Asian and Affairs, said he would meet with local and US officials and business leaders during his 29 May to 6 June trip.

The Democrat, a vigorous advocate for US engagement with the region, said North Korea’s torpedo attack on a South Korean warship, violent unrest in Thailand, and the situation in Burma “have underscored the need for the United States to step up its commitment to the region.”

“China’s influence has grown rapidly and broadly throughout Asia. Regrettably, China’s behavior has not reflected the kind of responsible leadership expected from a regional or global leader,” he said.

The Virginia lawmaker expressed his concern that US diplomatic efforts in Asia are underfunded, imperiling Washington’s ability to defend its interests in the region.

“East Asia is seeing a great deal of turmoil, at the same time that China is vigorously expanding its presence. If we are serious about crafting proactive, smart foreign policy, we must begin by providing our diplomats with the necessary tools and resources,” he said in a statement.